A full-time football education programme will kick off in Hinckley this summer.

Heart of England Training (HOET) has partnered with Pro Direct Academy and Leicester Road FC to deliver the exciting new initiative for 16 to 19-year-olds.

Starting in August 2018, this proven programme will offer learners the opportunity to achieve nationally recognised qualifications up to BTEC or NVQ Level 3, both of which will provide an ideal foundation to achieve career goals of working in sport, sports coaching and the wider sporting industry.

Based at HOET’s brand new education facility at LRFC Stadium, learners will receive 10 hours of professional UEFA coaching and two matchdays per week.

Fixtures will include a number of professional clubs, US colleges and touring teams, as well as regular matches in the ECFA League.

Players who have benefited from the football education programme

Learners will also receive a 50 per cent discount worth £75 towards the cost of their Pro Direct Nike training kit, as well as opportunities to train at St George’s Park, the home of English football, exclusive invites to Pro Direct events, tournaments and player appearances to boot.

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There are no formal entry requirements. The organisers are looking for players to shine both off and on the pitch. If learners do not hold a GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and maths, they will be supported to achieve them and English and/or maths functional skills will be incorporated into their training.

Upon successful completion of the Level 3 sport course learners are able to access a number of pathways. Popular routes for learners include sports coaching, activity leadership or PE in school sports apprenticeships, UK university sports-related degrees, international scholarships at a US university or college, or full-time employment as a coach at a local club or training academy.

To attend the next open event on April 5 and 6, make sure you complete an online registration form via www.hoet.co.uk/taster-days as places will be limited and offered on a strictly first come, first served basis.